The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) urged drivers to use caution. Each year, there are more deaths due to flooding than from any other severe weather hazard. According to the Centers for Disease Control, more than half of all flood-related drownings happen was a vehicle is driven into flood water. The CDC reports the next highest percentage of flood-related deaths is due to walking into flood waters.

The National Weather Service says: “The reason so many people drown during flooding is because few of them realize the incredible power of water. A mere six inches of fast-moving flood water can knock over an adult. It takes only two feet of rushing water to carry away most vehicles. This includes pickups and SUVs.”

If you approach a flooded road, play it smart and safe and turn around.